SHIMLA- 5^th March, 2025 -Governor Shiv Pratap Shukla presided over the closing ceremony of the week-long International Shivratri Fair in Mandi today. Lady Governor Janaki Shukla was also present on the occasion.

Addressing the gathering, the Governor said that the festival was a vibrant reflection of rich cultural heritage, faith and traditions of the state. He said that Shivratri was not merely a festival but a symbol of faith, penance and devotion. He said that Lord Shiva was the embodiment of both creation and destruction. "Shiva's Trishul inspires us to follow the path of truth, righteousness and justice, while his Damru symbolizes the eternal cycle of creation and dissolution" he added.

Referring to Himachal Pradesh as Devbhoomi, the Governor lauded Mandi, often called Choti Kashi, for its spiritual heritage and numerous temples dedicated to Lord Shiva and other deities. He said that the festival serves as a platform to promote the folk culture, music, dance and handicrafts of the state which was playing a pivotal role in preserving the glorious traditions of the state.

The Governor appreciated the efforts of the district administration in preserving the ancient tradition of Jaleb (traditional procession) and ensuring all necessary arrangements for visiting deities, pilgrims and musicians. He said that the participation and the presence of over 192 deities added grandeur to the event.

He further said this festival also plays an important role in promoting religious tourism and boosting local trade, handicrafts and self-employment for the local people. He stressed the need for environmental conservation and improved infrastructure and called for comprehensive plans to develop religious sites in the State.

The Governor also urged the youth to preserve their cultural roots. He also appealed to the people to rise above social evils like untouchability and discrimination to build a united and prosperous state.

The Governor remarked, "Lord Shiva, known as Vishwanath, signifies the oneness of nature and the divine. He said that true worship of Shiva was possible only by respecting nature and fulfilling our social and moral responsibilities."

Earlier, the Governor paid obeisance at the Madhorai Temple and participated in the Shobha Yatra. Both the Governor and Lady Governor wore traditional turbans and greeted the people with warmth.

Deputy Commissioner Apoorv Devgan welcomed and honored the Governor and Lady Governor on the occasion and provided an overview of the week-long festivities.

A cultural programme was also organized, featuring martial arts displays by NCC cadets for self-defense and a skit spreading the message of drug de-addiction. The final match of the tug-of-war competition, organized by Mahila Mandal, was also held on the occasion.

The Governor presented a cash prize of Rs. 15,000 to the winning team from Mahila Mandal Chachiot.

Former Chief Minister and Leader of Opposition Jai Ram Thakur, MLAs Chander Shekhar, Inder Singh, Puran Thakur, Dalip Thakur, Deep Raj, Chairman of APMC Sanjeev Guleria, Chairman of Zila Parishad Pal Verma, Mayor of Mandi Municipal Corporation Virender Bhatt, Secretary to the Governor C.P. Verma, SP Sakshi Verma and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.